Udupi: A Coastal Culinary Paradise
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Udupi, located along the coastal road to Goa and about an hour from Mangaluru, is a picturesque town that offers more than just stunning views—it’s a hub of delectable food, with many of its dishes now famous worldwide. Udupi is particularly renowned for its vegetarian cuisine, especially the crispy, indulgent masala dosa. While the town is best known for its vegetarian offerings, Udupi also offers an array of non-vegetarian delights. If you’re planning to visit, here are seven must-try culinary experiences that capture the essence of Udupi's vibrant food culture.
1. Annaprasada at the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple
Udupi cuisine is often referred to as the "Food of the Gods," and nowhere is this more evident than at the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple. The temple serves free meals to devotees, which include South Indian staples like sambar, rice, and rasam, all served on a banana leaf. This meal is a true reflection of the sattvic cooking style practiced in the temple’s kitchen, a tradition that gave rise to many renowned Udupi restaurants.
Where: Udupi Sri Krishna Temple
2. Woodlands Restaurant
A well-known name in Chennai and Bengaluru, Woodlands Restaurant has its roots in Udupi. It offers a delightful range of Udupi snacks, especially during the evening tiffin time. The masala dosa is a must-try, but don’t miss their Banana Buns, a fluffier, subtly sweet version of poori. For dessert, the rava kesari (sheera) is an absolute favorite. Complete your meal with an invigorating cup of Udupi's famous filter coffee.
Where: Dr UR Rao Complex
3. Banjara Restaurant, Hotel Sharon
Located in Kundapura, just 45 minutes from Udupi, Hotel Sharon serves the famous Kundapura Chicken Curry, which combines grated coconut with a unique blend of spices, including the region’s distinctive Bydagi chili. Another must-try dish here is the Kane Fry, made from fresh ladyfish that’s fried to perfection.
Where: Kundapura Main Road
4. Shetty Lunch Home
Shetty Lunch Home, a favorite of locals and tourists for over 60 years, is known for its rava-crusted Kane (ladyfish), chicken curry, and prawns ghee roast. However, the highlight here is the Shetty Ghee Roasted Chicken, which requires an hour's advance notice. This long-standing eatery offers a glimpse into Udupi’s rich culinary tradition.
Where: Near Kundapura Bus Stand
5. Diana
Diana is a nostalgic family dining option that’s been around for decades. The restaurant is known for its famous crusty cutlet, flavored with South Indian spices, and the Gudbud—a sundae made with fresh fruits, jelly, and ice cream. It remains a favorite for both old-timers and newcomers alike.
Where: Kapu, Udupi
6. Thamboolam
Thamboolam is the place to visit for a refined experience of Udupi’s non-vegetarian delicacies. The Kori Rotti here, crispy rice flour wafers soaked in chicken curry, is a must-try. Other highlights include Etty Chatni, a mixture of pounded shrimp, and traditional breads like Moode, a cylindrical idli. The donne biryani here is also highly recommended.
Where: Maruthi Veethika
7. Mitra Samaj
Located near the Udupi Sri Krishna Temple, Mitra Samaj is a modest yet beloved breakfast spot. Known for its bullet idli, chow chow bath (a combo of sweet kesari bath and savory rava upma), and masala dosa with filter coffee, this place also offers one of the best Goli Baje in Udupi—a deep-fried snack made from maida, rice flour, curd, and spices.
Where: Near Udupi Sri Krishna Temple
Udupi’s food scene is a celebration of flavors, from vegetarian delicacies like masala dosa and idlis to flavorful non-vegetarian dishes. Whether you’re enjoying a traditional temple meal or indulging in a rich chicken curry, Udupi offers something for every palate. So, when you visit, be sure to explore these culinary treasures and make the most of your time in this charming coastal town.
